The Show Room Insider

December 2006 Special Sections

Who are you going to turn to for advice on the next big purchase for your home? We think some of the best resources can be found in Twin Cities show rooms. Here’s how several show rooms responded when we asked for answers to common home design questions.

MSP: What are the best space-saving kitchen appliances that don’t sacrifice all the bells and whistles of the larger, commercial-style appliances?
Mike Mahin, Guyer’s Builder Supply: There are thirty-inch, commercial-style ranges from Viking and Dacor that, when combined with their over-the-range convection microwaves, give you all the benefits of commercial-style cooking in a relatively small area. Viking also makes twenty-four-inch, pro-style ranges if you are exceedingly short on space. Combine the range with a French-door, cabinet-depth refrigerator and an eighteen-inch European, cabinet-front dishwasher and you have a very efficient kitchen.

MSP: What’s the best way to use tile to make a strong design statement in your bathroom? What are the hottest new looks and materials? And what should you bring to the show room to get the process started?
Andrea Hanson, Rubble Tile: Don’t be afraid of color! Ten years ago, tile was mostly beige. Today you can find red, purple, green—hot colors, cool colors, and iridescent colors. Glass and handmade tiles make a very personal statement and can work in a multitude of design schemes, from modern and contemporary to classic and traditional. Large-format tiles and color mosaics are new and eye-catching. Bring both your floor plan and samples of anything that you have already decided on to your show room meeting. There are many more tiles to coordinate with your counter selection than there are countertops to go with your tile.

MSP: What’s your advice for someone who is shopping for furniture, but doesn’t want to start from scratch with all new pieces? How do you best mix and match old and new?
Jenny Reed, Gabberts Furniture and Design Studio: When redoing a room decide on an overall style or theme. Then analyze each piece in the room as to how it could fit into your new look. Eclectic is in-style today, but that doesn’t mean that anything goes. Consult with a designer if you are not sure. Antiques or pieces with sentimental value can easily be mixed into newer, updated schemes. An antique chest with a very contemporary piece of art or mirror, a bold lamp, and the perfect box can create a wonderful juxtaposition. Invest in furnishings that have great versatility and be sure to budget for the accents.

MSP: What are the most interesting trends in outdoor lighting?
Kari Cartier, Cartier Lighting: [At Cartier] we feature a landscape lighting concept room to demonstrate how each type of lighting works and we show you how to up-light architectural features, wall-wash or graze stone work, and silhouette trees. Path, deck/rail, and step lighting are a must for safety. The product trend is toward higher-quality copper or bronze fixtures that perform better in our tough Minnesota environment. 

MSP: What are the essential fixtures and gadgets for creating a spa environment in your shower?
Steve Singer, Pipeline Supply: Multiple body sprays or showerheads, a hand-held shower system with an adjustable slide bar, and raincan showerheads are just a start. Other luxuries could include a steam unit, fog-free mirror, and speakers. Select a system with a thermostatic valve and a twelve-inch showerhead that has light therapy with digital control. Don’t forget that the volume of water needed to operate your new shower may require a larger water heater.